I'm concerned about my Binky (again), and would like to hear any input from
vets and other experts on the list.  I have an appointment with her vet on
Friday.
 
History: nephrectomy at 6 weeks; partial adrenalectomy (right) at 1 year;
         still exhibits signs of gastric distress (teeth grinding)
         periodically.  Binky did POORLY post surgery.
 
Now I'm seeing hair loss and vulvular swelling.  The hair loss is not near
her tail, however, it is on her chest.  The vulva has been enlarged since
about 2 months after the last surgery.  There was no swelling before the
last surgery.  My vet was of the opinion that her vulva was normal at that
time.  (All I know is you can hardly see my other female's vulva at all -
and Binky's is *very* noticeable.) There has been some periodic discharge
from the vulva.  At one point the vet prescribed doucheing (yes - that's
what I said) - which we did with no change.  The vulva appears to me to be
increasing in size over the last 2 weeks.  There is still some occassional
discharge - minimal in volume.  Her energy seems normal, her appetite is as
good as it has ever been (small and picky), and her stools have always been
a bit thin - but appear normal.
 
I know my vet is going to be *very* resistant to another surgery, since
Binky had such a terrible time recovering from the last one.  It scares the
hell out of me, too.  I realize that the jury is still out on the
effectiveness of ultrasounds and the UT adrenal panel, but do you think I
should try one or both of those?  Or is there something else I should be
considering?  I've also considered getting another opinion, perhaps from one
of the specialists mentioned on the list (assuming they would see us, of
course).  That would possibly require some travel - but that would not be a
problem.  I'm not sure how my vet would feel about this, but all I want is
the best care I can get for Binky.
 
I'll do *anything* it takes.  I would appreciate advice/comments.
I just cry every time I think about the possibilities......
 
Please help.
 
Cheryl and the Wrecking Crew
[Posted in FML issue 1751]